Nasal fluid management device

ABSTRACT

An apparatus comprises a body and a conduit. The body comprises an absorbent material. The conduit is in fluid communication with the body. The conduit has a suction opening positioned within the absorbent material. The conduit is operable to draw fluid away from the absorbent material. The apparatus may be positioned within the posterior choana or the nasopharynx of a patient using a deployment instrument. The apparatus may prevent fluids from draining from the nasal cavity into the patient&#39;s throat. In some instances, the apparatus is used as a plug during a sinus irrigation procedure to prevent irrigation fluid from traveling down the patient&#39;s throat.

PRIORITY

This application a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/193,134, entitled “Nasal Suction Device,” filed Feb. 28, 2014,the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/039,387,entitled “Nasal Suction Device,” filed Sep. 27, 2013, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/832,180,entitled “Nasal Suction Device,” filed Mar. 15, 2013, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

In some instances, it may be desirable to dilate an anatomicalpassageway in a patient. This may include dilation of ostia of paranasalsinuses (e.g., to treat sinusitis), dilation of the larynx, dilation ofthe Eustachian tube, dilation of other passageways within the ear, nose,or throat, etc. One method of dilating anatomical passageways includesusing a guide wire and catheter to position an inflatable balloon withinthe anatomical passageway, then inflating the balloon with a fluid(e.g., saline) to dilate the anatomical passageway. For instance, theexpandable balloon may be positioned within an ostium at a paranasalsinus and then be inflated, to thereby dilate the ostium by remodelingthe bone adjacent to the ostium, without requiring incision of themucosa or removal of any bone. The dilated ostium may then allow forimproved drainage from and ventilation of the affected paranasal sinus.A system that may be used to perform such procedures may be provided inaccordance with the teachings of U.S. Pub. No. 2011/0004057, entitled“Systems and Methods for Transnasal Dilation of Passageways in the Ear,Nose or Throat,” published Jan. 6, 2011, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. An example of such a system is theRelieva® Spin Balloon Sinuplasty™ System by Acclarent, Inc. of MenloPark, Calif.

A variable direction view endoscope may be used with such a system toprovide visualization within the anatomical passageway (e.g., the ear,nose, throat, paranasal sinuses, etc.) to position the balloon atdesired locations. A variable direction view endoscope may enableviewing along a variety of transverse viewing angles without having toflex the shaft of the endoscope within the anatomical passageway. Suchan endoscope that may be provided in accordance with the teachings ofU.S. Pub. No. 2010/0030031, entitled “Swing Prism Endoscope,” publishedFeb. 4, 2010, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. An example of such an endoscope is the Acclarent Cyclops™Multi-Angle Endoscope by Acclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif.

While a variable direction view endoscope may be used to providevisualization within the anatomical passageway, it may also be desirableto provide additional visual confirmation of the proper positioning ofthe balloon before inflating the balloon. This may be done using anilluminating guidewire. Such a guidewire may be positioned within thetarget area and then illuminated, with light projecting from the distalend of the guidewire. This light may illuminate the adjacent tissue andthus be visible to the naked eye from outside the patient throughtranscutaneous illumination. For instance, when the distal end ispositioned in the maxillary sinus, the light may be visible through thepatient's cheek. Using such external visualization to confirm theposition of the guidewire, the balloon may then be advanced distallyalong the guidewire into position at the dilation site. Such anilluminating guidewire maybe provided in accordance with the teachingsof U.S. Pub. No. 2012/0078118, entitled “Sinus Illumination LightwireDevice,” published Mar. 29, 2012, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. An example of such an illuminatingguidewire is the Relieva Luma Sentry™ Sinus Illumination System byAcclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif.

In addition to or in lieu of dilating ostia of sinuses, it may bedesirable in some instances to irrigate the sinuses to flush contentsfrom the sinuses. For instance, it may be desirable to provide suchirrigation for therapeutic purposes and/or in order to clear a sitebefore and/or after a sinuplasty procedure as described herein. Sinusirrigation may be performed using an irrigation catheter that ispositioned within the sinus. The irrigation catheter may have one ormore distally positioned openings that are configured to emit fluid(e.g., saline) as the fluid is communicated through the irrigationcatheter. Examples of devices that may be used to provide sinusirrigation are the Relieva Vortex® and Relieva Vortex® 2 SinusIrrigation Catheters by Acclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. Whileprocedures such as sinus irrigation are performed, it may be desirableto prevent the irrigation fluid and/or flushed debris from travelingdown the patient's nasopharynx. This may be attempted using suctiondevices, occluding devices, and/or other kinds of devices. A variety ofdevices that may be used to prevent such travel are described in U.S.Pub. No. 2012/0245419, entitled “Devices, Systems and Methods forDiagnosing and Treating Sinusitis and Other Disorders of the Ears, Noseand/or Throat,” published Sep. 27, 2012, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein.

While several instruments and procedures have been made and used fortreatment of anatomical passageways in a patient, it is believed that noone prior to the inventors has made or used the invention described inthe appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly pointout and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the presentinvention will be better understood from the following description ofcertain examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a side elevational view of an exemplary dilation cathetersystem;

FIG. 2 depicts a side elevational view of an exemplary illuminatingguidewire suitable for use with the dilation catheter system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the illuminating guidewireof FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary endoscope suitable foruse with the dilation catheter system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 depicts a side elevational view of the distal end of theendoscope of FIG. 4, showing an exemplary range of viewing angles;

FIG. 6 depicts a side elevational view of an exemplary irrigationcatheter that may be used with the dilation catheter system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 depicts a left sagittal cross-sectional view of a portion of ahuman head, showing paranasal anatomical structures;

FIG. 8 depicts a side elevational view of an exemplary suction devicethat may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 depicts a side elevational view of another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 depicts a side elevational view of yet another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 depicts an end view of the suction device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of an outer sheath that may be usedwith the suction device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14A depicts a cross sectional view of the suction device of FIG. 11inserted within the outer sheath of FIG. 13;

FIG. 14B depicts a cross sectional view of the suction device of FIG. 11being advanced from the outer sheath of FIG. 13;

FIG. 14C depicts a side elevational view of the suction device of FIG.11 removed from the outer sheath of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 depicts a side elevational view of yet another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 16 depicts a partial perspective view of a proximal end of a bodyof the suction device of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 depicts an end view of a distal end of the suction device ofFIG. 15;

FIG. 18 depicts a side elevational view of yet another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 19 depicts a side elevational view of a deployment instrument thatmay be used with the suction device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20A depicts a side elevational view of the suction device of FIG.18 inserted within the deployment instrument of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20B depicts a side elevational view of the suction device of FIG.18 being initially deployed from the deployment instrument of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20C depicts a side elevational view of the suction device of FIG.18 deployed from the deployment instrument of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20D depicts a side elevational view of the deployment instrument ofFIG. 19 being removed from the suction device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 22 depicts another perspective view of the suction device of FIG.21;

FIG. 23 depicts a perspective view of a connector of the suction deviceof FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 depicts another perspective view of the connector of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26A depicts a diagrammatic view of the suction device of FIG. 21 ina compressed state, positioned within a patient's choana;

FIG. 26B depicts a diagrammatic view of the suction device of FIG. 21 ina compressed state, positioned within a patient's choana, and coupledwith a fluid filled syringe;

FIG. 26C depicts a diagrammatic view of the suction device of FIG. 21 inan expanded state, positioned within a patient's choana, having receivedfluid from a syringe;

FIG. 26D depicts a diagrammatic view of the suction device of FIG. 21 inan expanded state, positioned within a patient's choana, decoupled froma syringe;

FIG. 26E depicts a diagrammatic view of the suction device of FIG. 21 inan expanded state, positioned within a patient's choana, coupled with asuction source;

FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of yet another exemplary suctiondevice that may be used with the irrigation catheter of FIG. 6;

FIG. 28A depicts a side elevational view of the suction device of FIG.27 in a compressed state;

FIG. 28B depicts a side elevational view of the suction device of FIG.27 in an expanded state;

FIG. 29A depicts an end view of the suction device of FIG. 27 in acompressed state;

FIG. 29B depicts an end view of the suction device of FIG. 27 in anexpanded state;

FIG. 30 depicts a diagrammatic view of the suction device of FIG. 27disposed in a choana of a patient;

FIG. 31 depicts a diagrammatic view of an exemplary variation of thesuction device of FIG. 27 disposed in a choana of a patient;

FIG. 32 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of an exemplaryalternative configuration of an absorbent body and suction tube withstring, which may be incorporated into the suction device of FIG. 21,the cross-section being taken along plane extending longitudinally andvertically through a laterally central region of the absorbent body andsuction tube;

FIG. 33 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of anotherexemplary alternative configuration of an absorbent body and suctiontube with string, which may be incorporated into the suction device ofFIG. 21, the cross-section being taken along plane extendinglongitudinally and vertically through a laterally central region of theabsorbent body and suction tube;

FIG. 34 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of anotherexemplary alternative configuration of an absorbent body and suctiontube with string, which may be incorporated into the suction device ofFIG. 21, the cross-section being taken along plane extendinglongitudinally and vertically through a laterally central region of theabsorbent body and suction tube;

FIG. 35 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of anotherexemplary alternative configuration of an absorbent body and suctiontube with string, which may be incorporated into the suction device ofFIG. 21, the cross-section being taken along plane extendinglongitudinally and vertically through a laterally central region of theabsorbent body and suction tube;

FIG. 36 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of an exemplaryalternative absorbent body that may be incorporated into theconfiguration of FIG. 35, the cross-section being taken along planeextending longitudinally and vertically through a laterally centralregion of the absorbent body;

FIG. 37 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of anotherexemplary alternative configuration of an absorbent body and suctiontube with string, which may be incorporated into the suction device ofFIG. 21, the cross-section being taken along plane extendinglongitudinally and vertically through a laterally central region of theabsorbent body and suction tube;

FIG. 38 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of anotherexemplary alternative configuration of an absorbent body and suctiontube with string, which may be incorporated into the suction device ofFIG. 21, the cross-section being taken along plane extendinglongitudinally and vertically through a laterally central region of theabsorbent body and suction tube;

FIG. 39 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of an exemplaryalternative absorbent body that may be incorporated into theconfiguration of FIG. 38, the cross-section being taken along planeextending longitudinally and vertically through a laterally centralregion of the absorbent body;

FIG. 40 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternativeconfiguration of an absorbent body and suction tube with string, whichmay be incorporated into the suction device of FIG. 21, thecross-section being taken along plane extending longitudinally andvertically through a laterally central region of the absorbent body andsuction tube;

FIG. 41 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternativeconfiguration of an absorbent body and suction tube with string, whichmay be incorporated into the suction device of FIG. 21, thecross-section being taken along plane extending longitudinally andvertically through a laterally central region of the absorbent body andsuction tube;

FIG. 42 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternativeconfiguration of an absorbent body and suction tube with string, whichmay be incorporated into the suction device of FIG. 21, thecross-section being taken along plane extending longitudinally andvertically through a laterally central region of the absorbent body andsuction tube; and

FIG. 43 depicts a perspective, side cross-sectional view of anotherexemplary alternative configuration of an absorbent body and suctiontube with string, which may be incorporated into the suction device ofFIG. 21, the cross-section being taken along plane extendinglongitudinally and vertically through a laterally central region of theabsorbent body and suction tube.

The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it iscontemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be carriedout in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depictedin the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming apart of the specification illustrate several aspects of the presentinvention, and together with the description serve to explain theprinciples of the invention; it being understood, however, that thisinvention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the technology shouldnot be used to limit its scope. Other examples, features, aspects,embodiments, and advantages of the technology will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following description, which is by wayof illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out thetechnology. As will be realized, the technology described herein iscapable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departingfrom the technology. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions shouldbe regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

It will be appreciated that the terms “proximal” and “distal” are usedherein with reference to a clinician gripping a handpiece assembly.Thus, an end effector is distal with respect to the more proximalhandpiece assembly. It will be further appreciated that, for convenienceand clarity, spatial terms such as “top” and “bottom” also are usedherein with respect to the clinician gripping the handpiece assembly.However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations andpositions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and absolute.

It is further understood that any one or more of the teachings,expressions, versions, examples, etc. described herein may be combinedwith any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, versions,examples, etc. that are described herein. The following-describedteachings, expressions, versions, examples, etc. should therefore not beviewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways inwhich the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Suchmodifications and variations are intended to be included within thescope of the claims.

I. Overview of Exemplary Dilation Catheter System

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary dilation catheter system (10) that may be usedto dilate the ostium of a paranasal sinus; or to dilate some otheranatomical passageway (e.g., within the ear, nose, or throat, etc.).Dilation catheter system (10) of this example comprises a dilationcatheter (20), a guide catheter (30), an inflator (40), and a guidewire(50). By way of example only, dilation catheter system (10) may beconfigured in accordance with at least some of the teachings of U.S.Patent Pub. No. 2011/0004057, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. In some versions, at least part of dilation cathetersystem (10) is configured similar to the Relieva® Spin BalloonSinuplasty™ System by Acclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif.

The distal end of dilation catheter (20) includes an inflatable dilator(22). The proximal end of dilation catheter (20) includes a grip (24),which has a lateral port (26) and an open proximal end (28). Dilationcatheter (20) includes a first lumen (not shown) that provides fluidcommunication between lateral port (26) and the interior of dilator(22). Dilator catheter (20) also includes a second lumen (not shown)that extends from open proximal end (28) to an open distal end that isdistal to dilator (22). This second lumen is configured to slidablyreceive guidewire (50). The first and second lumens of dilator catheter(20) are fluidly isolated from each other. Thus, dilator (22) may beselectively inflated and deflated by communicating fluid along the firstlumen via lateral port (26) while guidewire (50) is positioned withinthe second lumen. In some versions, dilator catheter (20) is configuredsimilar to the Relieva Ultirra™ Sinus Balloon Catheter by Acclarent,Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. In some other versions, dilator catheter (20)is configured similar to the Relieva Solo Pro™ Sinus Balloon Catheter byAcclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. Other suitable forms that dilatorcatheter (20) may take will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

Guide catheter (30) of the present example includes a bent distal end(32) and a grip (34) at its proximal end. Grip (34) has an open proximalend (36). Guide catheter (30) defines a lumen that is configured toslidably receive catheter (20), such that guide catheter (30) may guidedilator (22) out through bent distal end (32). In some versions, guidecatheter (30) is configured similar to the Relieva Flex™ Sinus GuideCatheter by Acclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. Other suitable formsthat guide catheter (30) may take will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Inflator (40) of the present example comprises a barrel (42) that isconfigured to hold fluid and a plunger (44) that is configured toreciprocate relative to barrel (42) to selectively discharge fluid from(or draw fluid into) barrel (42). Barrel (42) is fluidly coupled withlateral port (26) via a flexible tube (46). Thus, inflator (40) isoperable to add fluid to dilator (22) or withdraw fluid from dilator(22) by translating plunger (44) relative to barrel (42). In the presentexample, the fluid communicated by inflator (40) comprises saline,though it should be understood that any other suitable fluid may beused. In some versions, inflator (40) is configured in accordance withat least some of the teachings of U.S. Pat. App. No. 61/725,523,entitled “Inflator for Dilation of Anatomical Passageway,” filed Nov.13, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.Other suitable forms that inflator (40) may take will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

As best seen in FIGS. 2-3, guidewire (50) of the present examplecomprises a coil (52) positioned about a core wire (54). An illuminationwire (56) extends along the interior of core wire (54) and terminates inan atraumatic lens (58). A connector (55) at the proximnal end ofguidewire (50) enables optical coupling between illumination wire (56)and a light source (not shown). Illumination wire (56) may comprise oneor more optical fibers. Lens (58) is configured to project light whenillumination wire (56) is illuminated by the light source, such thatillumination wire (56) transmits light from the light source to the lens(58). In some versions, the distal end of guidewire (50) is moreflexible than the proximal end of guidewire (50). Guidewire (50) has alength enabling the distal end of guidewire (50) to be positioned distalto dilator (22) while the proximal end of guidewire (50) is positionedproximal to grip (24). Guidewire (50) may include indicia along at leastpart of its length (e.g., the proximal portion) to provide the operatorwith visual feedback indicating the depth of insertion of guidewire (50)relative to dilation catheter (20). By way of example only, guidewire(50) may be configured in accordance with at least some of the teachingsof U.S. Pub. No. 2012/0078118, the disclosure of which is incorporatedby reference herein. In some versions, guidewire (50) is configuredsimilar to the Relieva Luma Sentry™ Sinus Illumination System byAcclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. Other suitable forms thatguidewire (50) may take will be apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

In an exemplary dilation procedure, guide catheter (30) may first bepositioned near the targeted anatomical passageway, such as a sinusostium (O). Dilator (22) and the distal end of guidewire (50) may bepositioned within or proximal to bent distal end (32) of guide catheter(30) at this stage. Guide catheter (30) is initially inserted into thenose of the patient and is advanced to a position that is within or nearthe ostium (O) to be dilated. This positioning of guide catheter (30)may be performed under visualization provided by an endoscope such asendoscope (60) described below. After guide catheter (30) has beenpositioned, the operator may advance guidewire (50) distally throughguide catheter (30) such that a distal portion of the guidewire (50)passes through the sinus ostium (O) and into the sinus cavity. Theoperator may illuminate illumination wire (56) and lens (58), which mayprovide transcutaneous illumination through the patient's face to enablethe operator to visually confirm positioning of the distal end ofguidewire (50) with relative ease.

With guide catheter (30) and guidewire (50) suitably positioned,dilation catheter (20) is advanced along guidewire (50) and through bentdistal end (32) of guide catheter (30), with dilator (22) in anon-dilated state until dilator (22) is positioned within the sinusostium (O) (or some other targeted anatomical passageway). After dilator(22) has been positioned within the ostium (O), dilator (22) may beinflated, thereby dilating the ostium. To inflate dilator (22), plunger(44) may be actuated to push saline from barrel (42) of inflator (40)through dilation catheter (20) into dilator (22). The transfer of fluidexpands dilator (22) to an expanded state to open or dilate the ostium(O), such as by remodeling the bone, etc., forming ostium (O). By way ofexample only, dilator (22) may be inflated to a volume sized to achieveabout 10 to about 12 atmospheres. Dilator (22) may be held at thisvolume for a few seconds to sufficiently open the ostium (O) (or othertargeted anatomical passageway). Dilator (22) may then be returned to anon-expanded state by reversing plunger (44) of inflator (40) to bringthe saline back to inflator (40). Dilator (22) may be repeatedlyinflated and deflated in different ostia and/or other targetedanatomical passageways. Thereafter, dilation catheter (20), guidewire(50), and guide catheter (30) may be removed from the patient.

II. Overview of Exemplary Endoscope

As noted above, an endo scope (60) may be used to provide visualizationwithin an anatomical passageway (e.g., within the nasal cavity, etc.)during a process of using dilation catheter system (10). As shown inFIGS. 4-5, endoscope of the present example comprises a body (62) and arigid shaft (64) extending distally from body (62). The distal end ofshaft (64) includes a curved transparent window (66). A plurality of rodlenses and light transmitting fibers may extend along the length ofshaft (64). A lens is positioned at the distal end of the rod lenses anda swing prism is positioned between the lens and window (66). The swingprism is pivotable about an axis that is transverse to the longitudinalaxis of shaft (64). The swing prism defines a line of sight that pivotswith the swing prism. The line of sight defines a viewing angle relativeto the longitudinal axis of shaft (64). This line of sight may pivotfrom approximately 0 degrees to approximately 120 degrees, fromapproximately 10 degrees to approximately 90 degrees, or within anyother suitable range. The swing prism and window (66) also provide afield of view spanning approximately 60 degrees (with the line of sightcentered in the field of view). Thus, the field of view enables aviewing range spanning approximately 180 degrees, approximately 140degrees, or any other range, based on the pivot range of the swingprism. Of course, all of these values are mere examples.

Body (62) of the present example includes a light post (70), an eyepiece(72), a rotation dial (74), and a pivot dial (76). Light post (70) is incommunication with the light transmitting fibers in shaft (64) and isconfigured to couple with a source of light, to thereby illuminate thesite in the patient distal to window (66). Eyepiece (72) is configuredto provide visualization of the view captured through window (66) viathe optics of endoscope (60). It should be understood that avisualization system (e.g., camera and display screen, etc.) may becoupled with eyepiece (72) to provide visualization of the view capturedthrough window (66) via the optics of endoscope (60). Rotation dial (74)is configured to rotate shaft (64) relative to body (62) about thelongitudinal axis of shaft (64). It should be understood that suchrotation may be carried out even while the swing prism is pivoted suchthat the line of sight is non-parallel with the longitudinal axis ofshaft (64). Pivot dial (76) is coupled with the swing prism and isthereby operable to pivot the swing prism about the transverse pivotaxis. Indicia (78) on body (62) provide visual feedback indicating theviewing angle. Various suitable components and arrangements that may beused to couple rotation dial (74) with the swing prism will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

By way of example only, endoscope (60) may be configured in accordancewith at least some of the teachings of U.S. Pub. No. 2010/0030031, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. In someversions, endoscope (60) is configured similar to the Acclarent Cyclops™Multi-Angle Endoscope by Acclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. Othersuitable forms that endoscope (60) may take will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

III. Exemplary Sinus Irrigation Catheter

As noted above, it may be desirable in some instances to irrigate thesinuses to flush contents from the sinuses. FIG. 6 shows an exemplaryirrigation catheter (80) that may be used to perform sinus irrigation.Irrigation catheter (80) of this example includes a flexible tubularmember (82) that has a distal opening (84), a plurality of transverseopenings (86) just proximal to distal opening (84), and a proximalfitting (88). Proximal fitting (88) is configured as a standard luerfitting that may be coupled with any suitable fluid source (e.g., asyringe filled with saline, etc.). Fluid communicated through proximalfitting (88) will travel along tubular member (82) and exit via openings(84, 86).

Irrigation catheter (80) of this example further includes a supportassembly (90) comprising a support tube (92) and a grip (94). Tubularmember (82) is slidably disposed within support assembly (90). Supporttube (90) has greater rigidity than tubular member (82) such thatsupport tube (90) provides structural support for tubular member (82) astubular member (82) is being positioned in a patient. Tubular member(82) may also include indicia along at least part of its length in orderto provide visual feedback relating to the depth of insertion of tubularmember (82). By way of example only, irrigation catheter (80) may beconfigured similar to the Relieva Vortex® and Relieva Vortex® 2 SinusIrrigation Catheters by Acclarent, Inc. of Menlo Park, Calif. Othersuitable forms that irrigation catheter (80) may take will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Tubular member (82) of the present example is sized for insertionthrough guide catheter (30). In particular, tubular member (82) may beinserted through guide catheter (30) before dilation catheter (20) hasbeen inserted in guide catheter (30) or after dilation catheter (20) hasbeen removed from guide catheter (30). It should be understood thatirrigation catheter (80) may also be advanced along guidewire (50), ifdesired. In some uses, irrigation catheter (80) is advanced throughguide catheter (30) such that openings (84, 86) are positioned near adesired irrigation/flush site. Endoscope (60) and/or illumination fromguidewire (50) may be used to provide visualization during thepositioning of irrigation catheter (80). Once irrigation catheter (80)is suitably positioned, fluid is communicated along tubular member (82)from proximal fitting (88) to openings (84, 86), such that the fluid issprayed from openings (85, 86) at the irrigation/flush site. Thisirrigation procedure may be performed before dilation catheter (20) isused to dilate the ostia (O) and/or after dilation catheter (20) is usedto dilate the ostia (O). In some instances, irrigation catheter (80) isused when no dilation procedure is being performed. Various othersettings in which irrigation catheter (80) may be used will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

It should be understood that an irrigation process using irrigationcatheter (80) may result in the need for fluid and/or other debris todrain from the irrigation/flush site. Otherwise, the patient may gag,cough, choke, or otherwise experience discomfort. In some instances, theoperator may simply have the patient lean forward such that the fluiddrains from the patient's nose. FIG. 7 depicts a pathway through whichirrigation fluid may reach the patient's throat. In particular, FIG. 7shows the patient's choana (C), which is a necked-down region of thenasal cavity, generally located posterior to the inferior turbinate (notshown), inferior to the sphenoid sinus (SS), and superior to the softpalate (SP). The choana (C) is generally associated with the posteriorend (NSPE) of the nasal septum (NS). The nasopharynx (NP) is caudal tothe choana (C) and posterior end (NSPE) of the nasal septum (NS). Thenasopharynx (NP) leads to the patient's throat. It should therefore beunderstood that irrigation fluid may travel into the throat via thechoana (C) and the nasopharynx (NP). An occlusion device may bepositioned within the patient's nasopharynx (NP), in the posteriorchoana (C), or elsewhere to prevent the fluid from draining down thepatient's throat. In addition or in the alternative, a suction devicemay be used to draw away the drainage. Additional devices that may beused to handle drainage from an irrigation process will be described ingreater detail below; while still other examples will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

IV. Exemplary Nasal Suction Device

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary suction device (100) that may be used tohandle drainage from an irrigation procedure performed using irrigationcatheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. Suction device(100) of this example comprises an absorbent body (110) secured to abase (120). Body (110) and base (120) are sized to be positioned withinthe posterior choana or the nasopharynx of a patient. A suction tube(130) is secured to base (120) by a pair of flanges (132, 134), whichprovide a fluid tight seal at the interface between suction tube (130)and base (120). Suction tube (130) has an open distal end (136). Theproximal end of suction tube (130) may be coupled with a suction source(e.g., vacuum pump, vacuum wall outlet, syringe, etc.), such thatsuction tube (130) may provide suction at open distal end (136). Opendistal end (136) is positioned within body (110).

Body (110) is configured to absorb fluids and is also pliable such thatbody (110) does not cause trauma to the tissue that comes in contactwith body (110). In some versions, body (110) is configured to expand asit absorbs fluid, such that body (110) will at least slightly bearoutwardly on the inner wall of the anatomical passageway in which body(110) is disposed. This may enable body (110) to generally conform tothe shape of the anatomical passageway and avoid fluids leaking pastbody (110). In some versions, body (110) comprises foam. Varioussuitable materials and structures that may be used to form body (110)will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

Base (120) is also pliable and atraumatic, yet base (120) is formed of anonabsorbent material that will provide a fluid tight seal such that thefluid will not pass through or around base (120) when base (120) isproperly positioned within an anatomical passageway such as theposterior choana or the nasopharynx. In some versions, base (120)comprises a membrane. Base (120) may also resiliently bear against thewall of the anatomical passageway, such that base (120) conforms to theshape of the anatomical passageway without providing fluid drainagepaths between the outer perimeter of base (120) and the wall of theanatomical passageway. While base (120) is shown as only making up arelatively small portion of the overall thickness of suction device(100), it should be understood that body (110) and base (120) may haveany other suitable relative thicknesses. Various suitable materials thatmay be used to form base (120) will also be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In an exemplary use, suction device (100) is positioned in a patient'sposterior choana or nasopharynx while irrigation catheter (80) ispositioned at the irrigation site in the patient's nasal cavity. Suctiondevice (100) is positioned such that body (110) is generally directedtoward the patient's nasal cavity while base (120) is generally directedtoward the patient's throat. In this example, suction tube (130) exitsthrough the underside of base (120) and is fed along the nasopharynx andout the patient's mouth. Irrigation fluid is then communicated throughirrigation catheter (80) while suction is communicated to suction tube(130). The irrigation fluid drains through the patient's nasal cavityand into body (110), which absorbs the fluid. As body (110) absorbs thefluid, suction tube (130) draws the fluid out of body (110) via opendistal end (136). This prevents body (110) from becoming oversaturatedto the point where suction device (100) no longer effectively plugs thedrainage path. The configuration and absorbance of body (110) preventsfluid from flowing quickly past suction tube (130).

FIG. 9 shows another exemplary suction device (200) that may be used tohandle drainage from an irrigation procedure performed using irrigationcatheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. Suction device(200) of this example is substantially similar to suction device (100)in that suction device (200) comprises an absorbent body (210) securedto a base (220) and a suction tube (230). Absorbent body (210) may beconfigured an operable just like absorbent body (110) described above.Similarly, base (220) may be configured and operable just like base(120) described above. However, in this example, suction tube (230)enters the top side of body (210) and is secured to base (220) by aplurality of tethers (232). In some other versions, tube (230) is bondedto body (210); and base (220) is bonded to body (210) such that tube(230) is bonded to tube (230) via body (210). Other suitable ways inwhich body (210), base (220), and body (210) may be secured will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. In the present example, suction tube (230) still also has anopen distal end (234) and may be coupled with a suction source at theproximal end of suction tube (230).

In an exemplary use, suction device (200) is positioned in a patient'sposterior choana or nasopharynx while irrigation catheter (80) ispositioned at the irrigation site. Suction device (200) is positionedsuch that body (210) is generally directed toward the patient's nasalcavity while base (220) is generally directed toward the patient'sthroat. In this example, suction tube (230) exits through the patient'snostril. Irrigation fluid is then communicated through irrigationcatheter (80) while suction is communicated to suction tube (230). Theirrigation fluid drains through the patient's nasal cavity and into body(210), which absorbs the fluid. As body (210) absorbs the fluid, suctiontube (230) draws the fluid out of body (210) via open distal end (234).This prevents body (210) from becoming oversaturated to the point wheresuction device (200) no longer effectively plugs the drainage path.

While suction device (100) has a suction tube (130) exiting the bottomof suction device (100), and suction device (200) has suction tube (130)exiting the top of suction device (200), it should be understood thateither suction device (100, 200) may be modified to have its suctiontube (130, 230) exit the side of suction device (100, 200) or have someother relationship with body (110, 210).

FIG. 10 shows yet another exemplary suction device (300) that may beused to handle drainage from an irrigation procedure performed usingirrigation catheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. Suctiondevice (300) of this example is substantially similar to suction devices(100, 200) in that suction device (300) comprises an absorbent body(310) secured to a base (320) and a suction tube (330). Absorbent body(310) may be configured and operable just like absorbent body (110)described above. Similarly, base (320) may be configured and operablejust like base (120) described above. In addition, a flange (332)secures suction tube (330) to base (320). However, in this example, theportion of suction tube (330) within body (310) comprises a main trunkportion (334) having a plurality of outwardly extending branches (340).Main trunk portion (334) also includes a distal opening (336) and aplurality of transverse openings (338), all of which are in fluidcommunication with the interior of suction tube (330).

Branches (340) include distal openings (342) that are also in fluidcommunication with the interior of suction tube (330). It should beunderstood that openings (336, 338, 342) provide additional points ofsuction within body (310), which may assist in drawing fluid from body(310) more effectively than versions having just one suction openingwithin body (310). It should also be understood that branches (340) mayinclude transverse openings (338), if desired. Furthermore, main trunkportion (334) may lack transverse openings (338). In some otherversions, main trunk portion (334) is substantially omitted, such thatall branches (340) terminate at a common stump or other kind ofinterface near flange (332) and extend upwardly and outwardly from theinterface. Various suitable configurations and arrangements of branches(340) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein.

Suction device (300) may be used just like suction device (100)described above, including routing suction tube (330) along thenasopharynx and out the patient's mouth. Alternatively, suction tube(330) may exit the top of body (310) similar to suction tube (230) ormay have any other suitable relationship with body (310).

It should be understood that with the effective seals provided bysuction devices (100, 200, 300), an operator may perform irrigationprocedures using a fluid pressure that is substantially higher than thefluid pressure that the operator might otherwise use in cases where asuction wand or other device were the only device used to handledraining irrigation fluid, etc. The substantially higher irrigationfluid pressures enabled by suction devices (100, 200, 300) may result inbetter cleaning of the sinuses by the irrigation fluid.

While suction devices (100, 200, 300) have been described above as beingused in the context of an irrigation procedure, it should be understoodthat suction devices (100, 200, 300) may be used in a variety of otherprocedures. Similarly, it should be understood that suction devices(100, 200, 300) may be used to absorb and suction fluids other thanirrigation fluid. By way of example only, suction devices (100, 200,300) may be used to absorb medication (e.g., lidocaine, etc.), blood,water, and/or any other fluid that may otherwise drain through thenasopharynx.

V. Exemplary Nasal Suction Device with a Deployment Instrument

In some instances, it may be desirable to place a suction device (100,200, 300) into an anatomical passageway (e.g., the posterior choana orthe nasopharynx) using a deployment instrument. This may allow suctiondevice (100, 200, 300) to be maneuvered to the desired location andadvanced from the deployment instrument; and/or for the deploymentinstrument to be withdrawn relative to suction device (100, 200, 300)once suction device (100, 200, 300) is in the desired location. Suctiondevice (100, 200, 300) then expands to at least partially bear againstthe inner wall of the anatomical passageway and prevent fluids fromleaking past suction device (100, 200, 300). The examples below includeseveral merely illustrative versions of suction devices with adeployment instrument that may be readily incorporated for use with anirrigation catheter (80) or other irrigation device to handle drainagefrom an irrigation procedure. It should be understood that theinstruments described below may be rigid, flexible, malleable, partiallyrigid, partially flexible, and/or partially malleable, to facilitatemaneuvering of the distal end of the instrument through the paranasalcavity. Other suitable distal end properties and configurations for theinstruments described below will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art.

It should also be understood that, in some instances, a conventionalinstrument (e.g., tweezers, bayonet forceps, etc.) may be used to deploya suction device (100, 200, 300) as described above and/or a suctiondevice (400, 600, 700) as described below. By way of example only, aforceps instrument with a scissor grip may be used to compress and holda suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700). In some instances, alocking feature may be provided to hold the jaws of the forceps in agrasping position. While suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700)is grasped and compressed in the jaws of the forceps, the jaws of theforceps and suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700) may be dippedin saline in order to wet suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700).The forceps may then be maneuvered to position suction device (100, 200,300, 400, 600, 700) in the patient's choana or nasopharynx, at whichpoint the grip of the forceps may be released to release suction device(100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700) in place. The released suction device(100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700) may then expand due to its wetting, thenbear into the wall of the choana or nasopharynx. If desired, additionalfluid may be added to suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700) toenhance the swelling/expansion of suction device (100, 200, 300, 400,600, 700). As a merely illustrative variation, the jaws of aconventional forceps device may be modified to encompass a greatersurface area of the exterior of suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600,700). Other suitable distal end properties and configurations forforceps instruments, the instruments described below, and otherinstruments that may be used to deploy suction device (100, 200, 300,400, 600, 700) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein.

A. Exemplary Nasal Suction Device with Outer Sheath

FIGS. 11-12 show an exemplary suction device (400) that is substantiallysimilar to suction devices (100, 200, 300) in that suction device (400)comprises an absorbent body (410) and a suction tube (430). Absorbentbody (410) may be configured and operable substantially similar toabsorbent body (110) described above. In the present example, body (410)comprises a foam material, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) foam. Body(410) is generally cylindrical and is configured to transition between acompressed state (FIG. 14A) and an expanded state (FIG. 14C). In thepresent example, body (410) is sufficiently compressible to fit withinouter sheath (510), as shown in FIG. 13, when body (410) is in thecompressed state. Body (410) may have a length of about 2 inches and adiameter of about 0.2 inches when body (410) is in the compressed state.Other suitable compressed dimensions will be apparent to one withordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Body (410) is sufficiently dense to press against the walls of theposterior choana or the nasopharynx when body (410) is in the expandedstate, thereby effectively sealing the posterior choana or thenasopharynx to prevent fluids (e.g., irrigation fluids, etc.) from beingcommunicated into the patient's throat. In the present example, body(410) has a circular profile in the expanded state, with a length ofabout 1.4 inches and a diameter of about 0.9+/−0.05 inches. It should beunderstood, however, that body (410) may instead have a non-circularprofile. By way of example only, in some versions where body (410) hasan ovular profile, elliptical profile, or otherwise elongate profile,body (410) may have a major diameter of about 1.1+/−0.02 inches and aminor diameter of about 0.65+/−0.2 inches. In some such versions wherebody (410) has an ovular profile, elliptical profile, or otherwiseelongate profile, the major diameter is bounded by curves having aradius of curvature of about 0.325 inches. As yet another merelyillustrative example, body (410) may have a major diameter of about0.85+/−0.2 inches and a minor diameter of about 0.45+/−0.2 inches, withthe major diameter being bounded by curves having a radius of curvatureof about 0.225 inches. Other suitable profile shapes that may be usedfor an expanded body (410) will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein. Similarly, other suitableexpanded dimensions for body (410) will be apparent to one with ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Suction tube (430) may be configured and operable substantially similarto suction tube (130) described above. Suction tube (430) is sized tofit within and extend proximally from body (410) such that suction tube(430) is able to provide adequate suction to body (410). By way ofexample only, suction tube (430) may have an inner diameter of about0.055 inches and an outer diameter of about 0.079 inches. Other suitabledimensions will be apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein. As shown in FIG. 11, suction tube (430) isplaced substantially in the radial center of body (410) such thatsuction tube (430) extends longitudinally within body (410). Suctiontube (430) may extend to a depth of about 1.0+/−0.05 inches into body(410). Other suitable lengths/depths to which suction tube (430) mayextend will be apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein.

As shown in FIG. 11, suction device (400) of the present example furthercomprises a string (440) extending proximally from body (410) such thatstring (440) may be grasped and pulled to thereby pull suction device(400) out of a patient through the nasal cavity or through the patient'smouth (depending on the orientation string (440) within the patient'schoana or the nasopharynx, etc.). By way of example only, string (440)may extend from body (410) by approximately 4 inches or more,approximately 6 inches or more, approximately 10 inches or more, or toany other suitable length. String (440) is positioned off-center withinbody (410) to accommodate suction tube (430) in the present example. Forinstance, string (440) may be laterally offset from the center of body(410) by about 0.15+/−0.05 inches. Other suitable offset distances willbe apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

In some versions, the distal end of string (440) is tied around theproximal end of body (410) instead of extending within body (410). Itshould be noted that string (440) is merely optional. For instance, anoperator may use an instrument, such as forceps, to grasp suction device(400) and thereby remove suction device (400) from a patient. However,even if forceps are used to remove suction device (400) from a patient,string (440) may still be provided as a safety feature such that ifdevice (400) were positioned improperly, string (440) may be grasped toprevent body (410) from slipping from the desired location (e.g.,slipping down a patient's throat). In some versions, the proximal end ofstring (440) is secured to the proximal end of suction tube (430) orouter sheath (510). This would allow suction tube (430) or outer sheath(510) to prevent string (440) from being dragged with body (410) ifdevice (400) were positioned improperly such that body (410) became freefrom suction tube (430) or outer sheath (510) and travelled into apatient's throat.

FIG. 13 shows an outer sheath (510) that may be used with suction device(400). Outer sheath (510) defines a lumen (512) extending through outersheath (510) such that suction device (400) may be inserted within lumen(512) of outer sheath (510). In the present example, lumen (512) issized to fit body (410) of suction device (400) when body (410) is inthe compressed state such that body (410) does not slip out of outersheath (510). Outer sheath (510) is further configured to fit within anasal cavity. Outer sheath (510) has a circular cross-sectional profilein this example, though it should be understood that sheath (510) mayinstead have any other suitable cross-sectional profile (e.g., ovular,elliptical, etc.). It should also be understood that sheath (510) may bestraight along its full length or may be curved along at least part ofits length. Outer sheath (510) may also taper inwardly in the distaldirection to allow for easier maneuvering within the nasal cavity.Various suitable configurations for sheath (510) will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In an exemplary use, suction device (400) is positioned within lumen(512) of outer sheath (510) with body (410) in the compressed state, asshown in FIG. 14A. The distal end of outer sheath (510) is then wettedsuch that fluid soaks body (410) of suction device (400). Outer sheath(510) and suction device (400) may also be submerged in fluid to wetbody (410). Other suitable wetting methods will be apparent to one withordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. As body (410)soaks, pores of body (410) expand slightly to allow the volume of body(410) to wet. Body (410) is wetted until body (410) is damp, but notsodden, such that the fluid is constrained within body (410). Body (410)may be wetted with water, saline, or any other fluid that will beapparent to one with ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. Suction device (400) and outer sheath (510) may then bepositioned in a patient's posterior choana or nasopharynx whileirrigation catheter (80) is positioned at the irrigation site. Suctiondevice (400) may be placed within the patient using outer sheath (510)as a handle such that no other instruments are needed. Suction device(400) is positioned such that body (410) is generally directed towardthe patient's nasal cavity. In this example, suction tube (430) andstring (440) exit through the patient's nostril. In some other versions,suction tube (430) and string (440) are oriented to exit through thepatient's mouth.

Suction device (400) is then advanced through outer sheath (510), asshown in FIG. 14B. As device (400) is pushed out of outer sheath (510),body (410) expands to an expanded state. When device (400) is fullyadvanced from outer sheath (510), as shown in FIG. 14C, body (410)expands to press against the wall of the choana, thereby effectivelysealing the choana. Body (410) may be pushed out of outer sheath (510)using a stylet, suction tube (430), or any other suitable device.Alternatively, outer sheath (510) may be retracted from device (400)while device (400) is held stationary. Outer sheath (510) may also betorn away from body (410) along a slit provided on outer sheath (510),allowing body (410) to expand. Other suitable methods to deploy device(400) from outer sheath (510) will be apparent to one with ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. In the presentexample, body (410) is configured to slide easily out of outer sheath(510) when body (410) is wet. If a physician attempts to place anexpanded and/or wet suction device (400) in a patient's choana withoutusing outer sheath (510), it may be difficult to enter the nasal cavitythrough a vestibule (e.g., nostril) and/or maneuver body (410) to thedesired location. If a physician attempts to place a dry and compressedsuction device (400) in a patient's choana without sheath (510), body(410) may need to soak in place to expand, which may allow fluid to dripdown or flow into a patient's throat. Further, if body (410) is expandedwith fluid through suction tube (430), body (410) may resist expansion,fill unevenly, or fill slowly with oversaturation. Thus, in the body(410) is pre-wetted in outer sheath (410) in the present example beforedevice (400) is advanced through outer sheath (510) as shown in FIG.14B. In some instances, additional fluid is then added to body (410) toexpand body (410) further before irrigation begins.

Once body (410) is deployed from outer sheath (510), irrigation fluid iscommunicated through irrigation catheter (80) while suction iscommunicated to suction tube (430). The irrigation fluid drains throughthe patient's nasal cavity and into body (410), which absorbs the fluid.As body (410) absorbs the fluid, suction tube (430) draws the fluid outof body (410). This prevents body (410) from becoming oversaturated tothe point where suction device (400) no longer effectively plugs thedrainage path. Once sufficient irrigation has been provided, suctiondevice (400) may be removed by pulling string (440) proximally tothereby pull body (410) and suction tube (430) proximally out of thenose or throat, depending on the orientation of string (440).

FIGS. 15-17 show another exemplary suction device (600) that may be usedwith outer sheath (510) to handle fluid drainage from an irrigationprocedure performed using irrigation catheter (80) or using some otherirrigation device. Suction device (600) of this example is substantiallysimilar to suction device (400) in that suction device (600) comprisesan absorbent body (610), a suction tube (630), and a string (640).However, absorbent body (610) of suction device (600) has an ovularprofile and an angled proximal end. As best seen in FIG. 17, the ovularprofile of body (610) has a top circular portion (616) and a bottomcircular portion (618), connected by side portions (619). The generallyovular shape of body (610) may accommodate a generally ovular shape ofan adult choana. An adult choana opening may define a height of about21-33 mm, with an average height of 25 mm, and a width of about 10.5-19mm, with an average width of 13.5 mm. The soft tissue of an adult choanaopening may be about 2-3 mm thick. Accordingly, body (610) may have aheight of 1.1+/−0.02 inches, a width of 0.65+/−0.02 inches, and a radiusportion of 0.325 inches. In other versions, body (610) has a height of0.85+/−0.02 inches, a width of 0.45+/−0.02 inches, and a radius portionof 0.225 inches. Of course, other suitable dimensions will be apparentto one with ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.It should also be understood that suction device (600) may have acircular profile or a profile of any other suitable shape.

FIG. 16 shows a proximal end of body (610). The proximal end of body(610) comprises a top angled portion (612) extending inwardly andproximally from top portion (616) and a bottom angled portion (614)extending inwardly and proximally from bottom portion (618). In thepresent example, top angled portion (612) and bottom angled portion(614) ramp inwardly toward each other to proximal face (616). Top angledportion (612) and bottom angled portion (614) may define an angle of 30degrees, but other suitable angles will be apparent to one with ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. The angled proximalend of body (610) may slide through a nasal cavity in a cam-like fashion(i.e., gently camming against the wall of the nasal cavity and anyadjacent paranasal anatomical structures, etc.) such that the angledproximal end of body (610) allows for easier removal of suction device(600) from a nasal cavity. In other versions, top angled portion (612)and bottom angled portion (614) ramp together to a point instead of aproximal face (616). In some other versions, side portions (619)comprise angled portions that ramp inward on the proximal end of body(610). As yet another merely illustrative example, the proximal end ofbody (610) may include an annular chamfer. Other suitable proximal endconfigurations of body (610) will be apparent to one with ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

Body (610) of the present example further comprises a non-porous region(620) on the distal end of body (610), as shown in FIG. 15. Non-porousregion (620) is configured to prevent fluid from passing through thedistal end of body (610). For example, body (610) may be positionedwithin a choana such that non-porous region (620) prevents fluid frompassing into a patient's throat. The distal end of body (610) may besealed with a nonabsorbent coating to form non-porous region (620); ornon-porous region (620) may include a base (120, 220, 320) as describedabove; or the pores of the same foam material may be closed fromprocessing. Various suitable ways in which the pore configuration forthe distal end of body (610) may be varied will be apparent to one withordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Non-porousregion (620) may be configured to completely prevent fluid from passingthrough the distal end of body (610). Alternatively, non-porous region(620) may restrict passage of fluid through the distal end of body (610)to a point where the fluid is slowed enough such that suction may removethe excess fluid from body (610) before the fluid passes fully throughthe distal end of body (610) and into the patient's throat. Othersuitable non-porous region (620) configurations will be apparent to onewith ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. In thepresent example, non-porous region (620) extends completely along thedistal face of body (610) and 0.3 inches along the longitudinal lengthof the distal end of body (610). Alternatively, non-porous region (620)may be sized to cover any other suitable extent of body (610) as will beapparent to one with ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

Suction device (600) operates similar to suction device (400). Forinstance, suction device (600) is positioned within lumen (512) of outersheath (510) with body (610) in a compressed state. Body (610) is thenwetted such that fluid soaks body (610) of suction device (600). As body(610) soaks, pores of body (610) expand slightly to allow the volume ofbody (610) to wet until body (610) is damp, but not sodden. Suctiondevice (600) and outer sheath (510) may then be positioned in apatient's posterior choana or nasopharynx while irrigation catheter (80)is positioned at the irrigation site. Suction device (600) may be placedwithin the patient using outer sheath (510) as a handle such that noother instruments are needed. Suction device (600) is positioned suchthat non-porous region (620) of body (610) is generally directed towardthe patient's nasal cavity. In this example, suction tube (630) andstring (640) exit through the patient's nostril. In some other versions,suction tube (630) and string (640) are oriented to exit through thepatient's mouth.

Suction device (600) is then advanced through outer sheath (510). Asdevice (600) is pushed out of outer sheath (510), body (610) expands toan expanded state. When device (600) is fully advanced from outer sheath(510), body (610) is expanded to press against the wall of the choana,thereby effectively sealing the choana. Body (610) may be pushed out ofouter sheath (510) using a stylet, suction tube (630), or any othersuitable device. Alternatively, outer sheath (510) may be retracted fromdevice (600) while device (600) is held stationary. Other suitablemethods to deploy device (600) from outer sheath (510) will be apparentto one with ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.In some instances, additional fluid is then added to body (610) toexpand body (610) further before irrigation begins.

Once body (610) is deployed from outer sheath (510), irrigation fluid iscommunicated through irrigation catheter (80) while suction iscommunicated to suction tube (630). The irrigation fluid drains throughthe patient's nasal cavity and into body (610), which absorbs the fluid.As body (610) absorbs the fluid, suction tube (630) draws the fluid outof body (610). This prevents body (610) from becoming oversaturated tothe point where suction device (600) no longer effectively plugs thedrainage path. Non-porous region (620) further prevents fluid frompassing through body (610) to the patient's throat. Once sufficientirrigation has been provided, suction device (600) may be removed bypulling string (640) proximally to thereby pull body (610) and suctiontube (630) proximally out of the nose or throat, depending on theorientation of string (640). The angled configuration of proximal end ofbody (610) facilitates proximal travel of body (610) through the nasalcavity to allow for easier removal of suction device (600).

B. Exemplary Nasal Suction Device with a Dedicated Deployment Instrument

FIG. 18 shows another exemplary suction device (700) that may be used tohandle drainage from an irrigation procedure performed using irrigationcatheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. Suction device(700) of this example is substantially similar to suction device (400)in that suction device (700) comprises an absorbent body (710) and asuction tube (730). Absorbent body (710) and suction tube (730) may beconfigured and operable similar to absorbent body (410) and suction tube(430) described above. In the present example, body (710) defines agenerally circular cross-sectional profile. Of course, body (710) maydefine other suitable cross-sectional profile shapes as will be apparentto one with ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein(e.g., ovular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.). Theproximal end of body (710) is angled such that a top portion (712) and abottom portion (714) of body (710) ramp inwardly to a proximal face(716). In some other versions, top angled portion (712) and bottomangled portion (714) ramp together to a point instead of a proximal face(716). The side portions of body (710) may also comprise angled portionsthat ramp inwardly on the proximal end of body (710). As yet anothermerely illustrative example, the proximal end of body (710) may includean annular chamfer. Other suitable proximal end configurations of body(710) will be apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein.

FIG. 19 shows a deployment instrument (800) that may be used withsuction device (700) to position body (710) within a desired anatomicalpassageway. Instrument (800) comprises a distal housing (830), coupledto a handle (810) by shaft portion (820). Housing (830) is sized toenclose body (710) of suction device (700) when body (710) is in thecompressed state such that body (710) does not slip out of housing(830). Housing (830) may be configured to entirely enclose body (710)within housing (830), or housing (830) may partially enclose body (710)such that a portion of body (710) is exposed through housing (830). Forexample, the distal end of body (710) may partially extend out ofhousing (830) and/or side portions of body (710) may be exposed alongthe longitudinal length of housing (830). Other suitable methods toenclose body (710) within housing (830) will be apparent to one withordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. The exteriorof housing (830) is configured to fit within a nasal cavity.

In the present example, distal housing (830) comprises a first housing(832) and a second housing (834). First housing (832) defines asemi-circular profile that is configured to enclose a top portion ofbody (710). Second housing (834) defines a semi-circular profile thatcorresponds to first housing (832) such that second housing (834) isconfigured to enclose a bottom portion of body (710). Although housing(830) has a generally circular cross-sectional profile, other suitablecross-sectional profile shapes for housing (830) will be apparent to onewith ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein (e.g.,ovular, elliptical, etc.). While FIG. 19 shows first and second housings(832, 834) of approximately equal size such that first and secondhousings (832, 834) each wrap around about half of body (710), first orsecond housing (832, 834) may also be larger and/or smaller such thatfirst or second housing (832, 834) wraps around a greater and/or lesseramount of body (710). First housing (832) is slidable relative to secondhousing (834) to thereby selectively expose body (710) from housing(830). The proximal ends of first and second housing (832, 834) comprisetapered portions (836, 838) that ramp inwardly, as shown in FIG. 19.Tapered portions (836, 838) may engage the nasal cavity in a cam-likefashion (i.e., gently camming against the wall of the nasal cavity andany adjacent paranasal anatomical structures, etc.) to ease the removalof instrument (800) from a nasal cavity. The proximal end of housing(830) further defines an opening (837) that is sized to accommodatesuction tube (730) such that suction tube (730) may pass freely throughopening (837). Opening (837) may be provided in first housing (832)and/or second housing (834). In versions where a string is provided toextend proximally from body (710), the string may also be positionedthrough opening (837).

Shaft portion (820) of instrument (800) comprises a first shaft (826)and a second shaft (825), as shown in FIG. 19. The distal end of firstshaft (826) is coupled with the proximal end of first housing (832) andthe distal end of second shaft (825) is coupled with the proximal end ofsecond housing (834). First and second shafts (826, 825) extendproximally from housing (830) and are arranged parallel to each other.First and second shafts (826, 825) each include an obliquely angled bentportion (824, 823), forming a dogleg configuration. Accordingly,proximal portions (822, 821) of shafts (826, 825) are laterally offsetfrom the longitudinal axis defined by housing (830), as shown in FIG.19. Bent portions (824, 823) of shafts (826, 825) may thereby provideclearance for other devices (e.g., endoscope (60), irrigation catheter(80), etc.) within the paranasal cavity. However, it should be notedthat bent portions (824, 823) of shafts (826, 825) are merely optional.For instance, shafts (826, 825) may be straight along their full lengthor may be curved along at least a portion of their lengths. Varioussuitable configurations for shafts (826, 825) will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Firstshaft (826) is slidable relative to second shaft (825) to therebytranslate first housing (832) relative to second housing (834). Forinstance, shafts (826, 825) may be coupled by a tongue and groovecoupling that allows shafts (826, 825) to slide longitudinally relativeto each other, while maintaining the lateral alignment of shafts (826,825). Other suitable ways in which shafts (826, 825) may be coupled willbe apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

Proximal portions (822, 821) of shafts (826, 825) are coupled withhandle (810), as shown in FIG. 19. Handle (810) comprises a pair offinger grips (812, 814). Proximal portion (822) of first shaft (826) iscoupled to first grip (814) by coupling member (818). Proximal portion(821) of second shaft (825) is coupled to second grip (812) by couplingmember (816). First grip (814) is translatable relative to second grip(812). Grips (814, 812) of handle (810) are configured to be grasped bya single hand. In the present example, grips (814, 812) include openingsto allow a user to insert a thumb and/or fingers into the openings toactuate handle (810). First grip (814) is actuated to translate awayfrom second grip (812) to thereby translate first shaft (826) and firsthousing (832) proximally. As first housing (832) translates proximally,body (710) is exposed from housing (830) to allow the expansion of body(710).

FIGS. 20A-20D show an exemplary operation of suction device (700) anddeployment instrument (800). As shown in FIG. 20A, suction device (700)is positioned within housing (830). Body (710) is enclosed by first andsecond housings (832, 834) with body (710) in a compressed state.Suction tube (730) is positioned within opening (837) of housing (830)to allow suction tube (730) to extend proximally outside of instrument(800). Body (710) is then wetted within housing (830) such that fluidsoaks body (710) of suction device (700). As body (710) soaks, pores ofbody (710) expand slightly to allow the volume of body (710) to wetuntil body (710) is damp, but not sodden. Handle (810) of instrument(800) may then be used to maneuver housing (830) to place suction device(700) in a patient's posterior choana or nasopharynx while irrigationcatheter (80) is positioned at the irrigation site. In this example,suction tube (730) exits through the patient's nostril. In some otherversions, suction tube (730) is oriented to exit through the patient'smouth.

Suction device (700) is then exposed from housing (830), as shown inFIG. 20B. First grip (814) is translated proximally away from secondgrip (812). As first grip (814) translates proximally, first shaft (826)and first housing (832) thereby translate proximally. Accordingly, firsthousing (832) is translated relative to second housing (834) to expose aportion of body (710) of suction device (700). As device (700) isexposed from housing (830), body (710) expands to an expanded state.When device (700) is fully exposed from housing (830), as shown in FIG.20C, body (710) self-expands to press against the wall of the choana,thereby effectively sealing the choana. Deployment instrument (800) maythen be pulled proximally to remove instrument (800) from device (700)and the nasal cavity, as shown in FIG. 20D. In some instances,additional fluid is then added to body (710) to expand body (710)further before irrigation begins.

Once body (710) is deployed from instrument (800), irrigation fluid iscommunicated through irrigation catheter (80) while suction iscommunicated to suction tube (730). The irrigation fluid drains throughthe patient's nasal cavity and into body (710), which absorbs the fluid.As body (710) absorbs the fluid, suction tube (730) draws the fluid outof body (710). This prevents body (710) from becoming oversaturated tothe point where suction device (700) no longer effectively plugs thedrainage path. Once sufficient irrigation has been provided, suctiondevice (700) may be removed by pulling device (700) proximally out ofthe nose or throat. The angled configuration of proximal end of body(710) facilitates proximal travel of body (710) through the nasal cavityto allow for easier removal of suction device (700).

VI. Exemplary Nasal Suction Device with a Multi-Function Connector

FIGS. 21-26E show another exemplary suction device (900) that may beused to handle drainage from an irrigation procedure performed usingirrigation catheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. Suctiondevice (900) of this example comprises an absorbent body (910), asuction tube (930), and a connector (940). By way of example only,absorbent body (910) and suction tube (930) may be configured andoperable in accordance with any of the teachings herein relating toabsorbent body (110, 210, 310, 410, 610, 710) and suction tube (130,230, 330, 430, 630, 730), respectively. In some versions, the distal endof suction tube (930) is disposed in body (910) and includes one or moresuction openings that are also disposed in body (910). By way of exampleonly, suction tube (930) may comprise a pebax material and/or any othersuitable material(s). It should also be understood that at least aportion of suction tube (930) (e.g., a proximal portion of suction tube(930)) may include a strain relief feature, such as a strain reliefsleeve, etc. For instance, a proximal region of suction tube (930)extending to connector (940) may include a strain relief overtube thatis fitted about the outer surface of suction tube (930). In some suchversions, the strain relief overtube has a length of approximately 2.0inches, an inner diameter of approximately 0.095 inches and an outerdiameter of approximately 0.115 inches; while suction tube (930) has alength of approximately 9.0 inches, an inner diameter of approximately0.070 inches and an outer diameter of approximately 0.090 inches. Othersuitable dimensions will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein. Similarly, other suitable ways inwhich suction tube (930) may be provided with strain relief will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

In the present example, body (910) defines a generally ovularcross-sectional profile. Of course, body (910) may define other suitablecross-sectional profile shapes as will be apparent to one with ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein (e.g., circular,square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.). In some instances, thedistal face (912) and/or proximal face (914) of body (910) includes asemi-permeable skin that slows (but does not prevent) the communicationof fluid into and out of body (910). In some other variations, distalface (912) includes an impermeable skin while proximal face (914)includes a semi-permeable skin. Other suitable ways in which body (910)may include one or more impermeable skins and/or one or moresemi-permeable skins will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

Body (910) may be provided in any number of sizes. For instance,different suction devices (900) may be provided to make different body(910) sizes available. By way of example only, a small body (910) sizemay be approximately 1.0 inches long and approximately 0.50 inches widewhen expanded; and approximately 0.28 inches long and approximately 0.14inches wide when compressed. As another merely illustrative example, alarge body (910) size may be approximately 1.25 inches long andapproximately 0.65 inches wide when expanded; and approximately 0.32inches long and approximately 0.16 inches wide when compressed. In someversions where body (910) has an ovular profile, body (910) may beapproximately 1.0 inches long, approximately 0.50 inches wide, andapproximately 0.95 inches tall when expanded; and approximately 0.16inches wide and approximately 0.32 inches tall when compressed. Othersuitable sizes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein. In some versions where the distal end ofbody (910) includes a radiused corner, the corner may be curved at aradius of approximately 0.08 inches when compressed. Similarly, othersuitable features, configurations, and structural characteristics thatmay be incorporated into body (910) will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Connector (940) of the present example is contoured to promote grippingof connector (940) by an operator, between the operator's thumb andindex finger. As best seen in FIGS. 22-25, connector (940) of thepresent example defines a lumen (942), which is in fluid communicationwith suction tube (930). As seen in FIG. 25, the distal end of lumen(942) provides a curved transition (943) to the exterior of the distalend (944) of connector (940). As also best seen in FIG. 25, the diameterof lumen (942) varies along the length of lumen (942). In particular, adistal region of lumen (942) has a first diameter (d₁); an intermediateregion of lumen (942) has a second diameter (d₂); and a proximal regionof lumen (942) ranges from a third diameter (d₃) to a fourth diameter(d₄). By way of example only, first diameter (d₁) may be betweenapproximately 0.93 inches and approximately 0.090 inches; seconddiameter (d₂) may be approximately 0.079 inches; third diameter (d₃) maybe approximately 0.143 inches; and fourth diameter (d₄) may beapproximately 0.169 inches. Of course, any other suitable diameter sizesmay be used. In the present example, the proximal end of lumen (942)provides a tapered transition from the third diameter (d₃) to the fourthdiameter (d₄), at an angle of approximately 3.43 degrees. Of course, anyother suitable angle may be used. Furthermore, the transition from thethird diameter (d₃) to the fourth diameter (d₄) may be stepped, curved,or have some other configuration. It should also be understood that thethird diameter (d₃) may extend consistently along a certain length oflumen (942), such that the taper toward the fourth diameter (d₄) beginsat a transition region (945) in lumen (942) as shown in FIG. 25.

It should be understood that various kinds of conventional tubing may becoupled with connector (940). By way of example only, conventionaltubing may be deformably fitted over distal end (944), such that thetubing deforms to receive distal end (944) and thereby provide a fluidtight fit with lumen (942). In addition or in the alternative,conventional tubing may be deformably fitted over proximal end (946),such that the tubing deforms to receive proximal end (946) and therebyprovide a fluid tight fit with lumen (942). It should also be understoodthat conventional tubing may be deformably fitted into lumen (942). Forinstance, the distal and/or proximal end of lumen (942) may receiveconventional tubing that has an outer diameter that is greater than thecorresponding diameter (d₁, d₄) of lumen (942), such that the tubingdeforms to pass into lumen (942) and thereby provide a fluid tight fitwith lumen (942). One or more regions of lumen (942) may include barbsand/or other features that are configured to retain a tube inserted inlumen (942). Other suitable features, dimensions, and configurationsthat may be provided in lumen (942) will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, the distal end (944) of connector (940) isfixedly secured to suction tube (930). The proximal end (946) ofconnector (940) comprises a luer fitting feature, which enablesconnector (940) to be coupled with a complementary luer fitting of someother device as will be described in greater detail below. By way ofexample only, proximal end (946) of connector (940) may include twoseparate luer threads on opposite lateral sides of connector (940). Asanother merely illustrative example, proximal end (946) of connector(940) may include a single, full luer thread extending about the fullcircumference of proximal end (946). As yet another merely illustrativeexample, proximal end (946) of connector (940) may include a slip fit orsnap fit feature that is configured to couple with a luer fitting of aseparate device. Various suitable ways in which proximal end (946) maybe configured will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein.

Connector (940) of the present example also includes an integral loop(948). A string (916) is secured to loop (948) and also to body (910),such that string (916) provides a tether between connector (940) andbody (910). It should therefore be understood that, similar to strings(440, 640) described above, string (916) may be grasped and pulled tothereby pull suction device (900) out of a patient through the nasalcavity or through the patient's mouth (depending on the orientationstring (916) within the patient's choana (C) or the nasopharynx (NP),etc.). String (916) may also reduce the risk of inadvertent aspirationof body (910) in the event that body (910) breaks free from suction tube(930) due to operator misuse. In some versions, string (916) wrapsaround the proximal end of body (910) and passes transversely throughbody (910) at approximately 0.25 inches from the proximal end of body(910), thereby forming a loop to secure string (916) to body (910).Various suitable ways in which string (916) may be coupled with body(910) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein. It should also be understood that string (916) ismerely optional.

FIGS. 26A-26E depict various exemplary steps that may be carried out todeploy suction device (900) for use during an irrigation procedure whereirrigation catheter (80) is used. FIG. 26A depicts suction device (900)positioned such that body (910) is located in a patient's choana (C).Body (910) is in a compressed state. It should be understood that, withbody (910) in the compressed state (910), body (910) may be insertedthrough the patient's nostril (N) to reach the choana (C). It shouldalso be understood that any of the instrumentation described herein maybe used to position body (910) in the choana (C) as shown in FIG. 26A.By way of example only, the operator may use regular forceps, bayonetforceps, sheath (510), deployment instrument (800), and/or any othersuitable kind of instrument as will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. As noted above, body(910) may include tapered or rounded edges to promote smooth insertionof body (910) to reach the choana (C). In addition or in thealternative, at least a portion of body (910) may be coated with alubricant (e.g., K-Y® Jelly by McNeil PPC, Inc. of Fort Washington, Pa.)to promote smooth insertion of body (910) to reach the choana (C). Whilebody (910) is shown as being positioned in the choana (C), it should beunderstood that body (910) may be positioned in the nasopharynx (NP) inaddition to or in lieu of being positioned in the choana (C).Alternatively, body (910) may be positioned in some other anatomicalpassageway. Indeed, it is contemplated that suction device (900) may beused in various other locations and in various other procedures, notjust procedures involving paranasal sinus irrigation.

Once body (910) has been suitably positioned in the region of the choana(C), connector (940) is then coupled with a conventional, fluid filledsyringe (950), as shown in FIG. 26B. In particular, the distal luerfitting (952) of syringe (950) is coupled with the luer fitting atproximal end (946) of connector (940), providing a fluid tight coupling.Once distal luer fitting (952) of syringe (950) is coupled with the luerfitting at proximal end (946) of connector (940), the operator advancesthe plunger (954) of syringe (950) to drive fluid (e.g., saline, etc.)from the body (956) of syringe (950), as shown in FIG. 26C. This fluidtravels through lumen (942) of connector (940), then further throughsuction tube (930) to reach body (910). As body (910) receives thefluid, body (910) swells such that body (910) eventually fills theregion of the choana (C) as shown in FIG. 26C. By way of example only,the operator may use syringe (950) to inject approximately 5 cc of fluidinto body (910) in order to transition body (910) from the compressedstate (FIG. 26B) to the expanded state (FIG. 26C). Alternatively, anyother suitable volume of fluid may be used. With body (910) in theexpanded state, body (910) bears against the walls of the paranasalcavity in the region of the choana (C).

Once body (910) has been expanded within the choana (C), syringe (950)is removed from connector (940) as shown in FIG. 26D. Next, a suctionsource (960) is coupled with connector (940) via a tube (962), as shownin FIG. 26E. In particular, tube (962) is positioned over proximal end(946) of connector (940), providing a fluid tight fit. In someinstances, the end of tube (962) deforms to fit over proximal end (946)of connector (940). In some other instances, the end of tube (962)includes a luer feature that complements the luer feature at proximalend (946) of connector (940). In still other instances, the end of tube(962) is deformably inserted within lumen (942) at proximal end (946) ofconnector (940). Alternatively, tube (962) may be coupled with connector(940) in any other suitable fashion. Suction source (960) may take avariety of forms, including but not limited to a vacuum pump, vacuumwall outlet, syringe, etc. After suction source (960) is coupled withconnector (940), suction source (960) may provide suction to body (910)via lumen (942) of connector (940) and suction tube (930). The operatormay thus initiate an irrigation procedure (using irrigation catheter(80) or using some other irrigation device) after reaching the stageshown in FIG. 26E, and suction device (900) will cooperate with suctionsource (960) to prevent the irrigation fluid from reaching the patient'sthroat. In other words, suction device (900) and suction source (960)may cooperate to absorb and draw away irrigation fluid during theirrigation procedure.

Once the irrigation procedure is complete, suction device (900) may beremoved through the patient's nostril (N). In some instances, this mayinclude pulling on suction tube (930) to remove body (910) from thechoana (C). In addition or in the alternative, the operator may pullstring (916) to remove body (910) from the choana (C). Other suitableways in which suction device (900) may be used will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

VII. Exemplary Nasal Suction Device with Expandable Frame

FIGS. 27-30 show another exemplary suction device (1000) that may beused to handle drainage from an irrigation procedure performed usingirrigation catheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. Suctiondevice (1000) of this example comprises a set of frame members (1010)that are joined together by webbing (1020). Frame members (1010)converge at a suction tube (1030) and are secured to suction tube(1030). Frame members (1010) extend distally and obliquely relative tosuction tube (1030). Suction tube (1030) includes an open distal end(1032) that is located in an interior region of suction device (1000)defined by webbing (1020). The other end (not shown) of suction tube(1030) may be coupled with a conventional source of suction as describedelsewhere herein. It should therefore be understood that open distal end(1032) of suction tube (1030) may be used to suction fluid capturedwithin the interior region of suction device (1000) defined by webbing(1020).

Frame members (1010) are configured to transition between a compressedconfiguration, as shown in FIGS. 28A and 29A; and an expandedconfiguration, as shown in FIGS. 28B and 29B. Webbing (1020) isconfigured to accommodate this expansion and compression of framemembers (1010). When frame members (1010) and webbing (1020) are in thecompressed configuration, frame members (1010) and webbing (1020) definea first effective width (w₁). When frame members (1010) and webbing(1020) are in the expanded configuration, frame members (1010) andwebbing (1020) define a second effective width (w₂). The first effectivewidth (w₁) is sized to permit suction device (1000) to be moved intoposition in the region of the patient's choana (C); while the secondeffective width (w₂) is sized to permit frame members (1010) and webbing(1020) to seal against (e.g., bear against) the paranasal walls at theregion of the choana (C), as described in greater detail below.

In some versions, frame members (1010) are resiliently biased to assumethe expanded configuration (FIGS. 28B and 29B), such that frame members(1010) must be held in compression to maintain the compressedconfiguration (FIGS. 28A and 29A). By way of example only, an outersheath and/or other deployment instrument may be operable to holdresilient frame members (1010) in compression, then selectively releaseframe members (1010) to allow frame members (1010) to assume theexpanded configuration when suction device (1000) has been suitablypositioned. In some other versions, frame members (1010) are malleable.By way of example only, an inflatable balloon or other feature may beexpanded to convert frame members (1010) from the compressedconfiguration to the expanded configuration. In still other versions, apush rod, linkages, and/or other mechanical features may be used toactuate frame members (1010), to thereby mechanically drive framemembers (1010) from the compressed configuration to the expandedconfiguration (e.g., similar to an umbrella, etc.). Various suitableways in which frame members (1010) may be selectively transitioned fromthe compressed configuration to the expanded configuration will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. It should also be understood that various kinds of materials andcombinations of materials may be used to form frame members (1010),including but not limited to stainless steel, nitinol, etc.

Webbing (1020) may also be formed of a variety of materials. By way ofexample only, webbing (1020) may comprise a PVA foam, an absorbentfabric material, a hydrophilic coating, and/or various other kinds ofmaterials. In some versions, webbing (1020) is resilient. In some otherversions, webbing (1020) is flexible yet non-resilient. Other suitablematerials and properties that may be incorporated into webbing (1020)will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

FIG. 30 shows one merely illustrative example of how suction device(1000) may be positioned within a choana (C). In this particularexample, suction tube (1030) passes down through the nasopharynx (NP)and exits through the patient's mouth to reach a suction source (notshown). Frame members (1010) and webbing (1020) are in the expandedconfiguration to catch irrigation fluid, acting as a dam to prevent theirrigation fluid from reaching the nasopharynx (NP). The open distal end(1032) of suction tube (1030) draws in fluid that is caught by webbing(1020). It should be understood that suction device (1000) may be heldin the compressed state by a sheath or other instrument feature beforereaching the position shown in FIG. 30. Upon reaching the position shownin FIG. 30, suction device (1000) may be released and allowed to expand(or driven to expand) to the expanded configuration shown in FIG. 30.After the irrigation procedure is complete, a sheath or other instrumentfeature may be used to transition suction device (1000) back to thecompressed configuration. Once in the compressed configuration, suctiondevice (1000) may be withdrawn from the patient via the nasopharynx (NP)and mouth. Other suitable ways in which suction device (1000) may beused will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein.

FIG. 31 shows a merely illustrative variation of suction device (1000).In particular, FIG. 31 shows a suction device (1100) that includes a setof frame members (1110), webbing (1120), and a suction tube (1130).Frame members (1110) of suction device (1100) are substantially similarto frame members (1010) of suction device (1000), except that framemembers (1110) of suction device (1100) extend proximally instead ofextending distally. Webbing (1120) is substantially identical to webbing(1020). Suction tube (1130) is substantially similar to suction tube(1030), except that suction tube (1130) of this example includes lateralsuction ports (1132) formed in the side of suction tube (1130), withinthe interior region defined by frame members (1110) and webbing (1120).While three lateral suction ports (1132) are shown in a longitudinalarrangement, it should be understood that any other suitable number oflateral suction ports (1132) may be provided in any other suitablearrangement. Lateral suction ports (1132) are in fluid communicationwith a suction source (not shown) via suction tube (1030).

As shown in FIG. 31, suction device (1110) may be positioned in thepatient's choana (C) via the patient's nostril (N). Frame members (1110)and webbing (1120) are in the expanded configuration to catch irrigationfluid, acting as a dam to prevent the irrigation fluid from reaching thenasopharynx (NP). Lateral suction ports (1132) of suction tube (1130)draw in fluid that is caught by webbing (1120). It should be understoodthat suction device (1100) may be held in the compressed state by asheath or other instrument feature before reaching the position shown inFIG. 31. Upon reaching the position shown in FIG. 31, suction device(1100) may be released and allowed to expand (or driven to expand) tothe expanded configuration shown in FIG. 31. After the irrigationprocedure is complete, a sheath or other instrument feature may be usedto transition suction device (1100) back to the compressedconfiguration. Once in the compressed configuration, suction device(1100) may be withdrawn from the patient via the nostril (N). Othersuitable ways in which suction device (1100) may be used will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

VIII. Exemplary Alternative Absorbent Body and Suction TubeConfigurations

FIGS. 32-43 show various exemplary alternative features that may beincorporated into suction device (900) described above. It should beunderstood that, when suction device (900) is modified in accordancewith the teachings below, suction device (900) may be used to handledrainage from an irrigation procedure performed using irrigationcatheter (80) or using some other irrigation device. In other words, themodified versions of suction device (900) described below may be used inaccordance with the teachings herein relating to use of suction device(900) as described above. While the modified features are describedbelow with reference to separate drawings and reference numbers, itshould be understood that the features described below may be combinedin numerous ways. By way of example only, the suction tube (1330) ofFIG. 33 may be combined with the absorbent body (2010) of FIG. 40.Various other suitable ways in which the features described below may becombined will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in viewof the teachings herein.

FIG. 32 shows an exemplary absorbent body (1210) with a string (1220)and a suction tube (1230). Except for the differences described below,these components (1210, 1220, 1230) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (1230) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (1210). In the present example, suctiontube (1230) is not fully inserted into absorbent body (1210), such thatabsorbent body (1210) defines a cylindraceous gap or recess (1212) thatis located distal to the distal end (1232) of suction tube (1230). Thisrecess (1212) may assist in preventing distal end (1232) from gettingessentially clogged by the material forming absorbent body (1210) duringuse in a patient. In other words, recess (1212) may improve or maintainpatency between absorbent body (1210) and suction tube (1230), ensuringappropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (1210) through suction tube(1230) even when absorbent body (1210) encounters both compression andsuction while deployed within the patient.

FIG. 33 shows another exemplary absorbent body (1310) with a string(1320) and a suction tube (1330). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (1310, 1320, 1330) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (1330) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (1310). In the present example, thedistal end (1332) of suction tube (1330) is cut at an oblique angle(i.e., oblique to the longitudinal axis of suction tube (1330)). Thus,even with suction tube (1330) fully inserted into absorbent body (1310),a cylindraceous gap or recess (1312) is defined within body (1310),distal to distal end (1332). This recess (1312), along with the obliqueconfiguration of distal end (1332), may assist in preventing distal end(1332) from getting essentially clogged by the material formingabsorbent body (1310) during use in a patient. In other words, recess(1312) and the oblique configuration of distal end (1332) may improve ormaintain patency between absorbent body (1310) and suction tube (1330),ensuring appropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (1310) throughsuction tube (1330) even when absorbent body (1310) encounters bothcompression and suction while deployed within the patient.

In the present example, the proximal-most region of distal end (1332) ispositioned substantially near the center of absorbent body (1310). Insome other variations, the proximal-most region of distal end (1332) ispositioned substantially near the proximal end of absorbent body (1310)(i.e., the end of absorbent body (1310) where suction tube (1330) entersabsorbent body (1310)). This positioning may provide reduced compressionat distal end (1332) during use in a patient. This positioning may beachieved in numerous ways. By way of example only, distal end (1332) maybe cut at an oblique angle that is substantially more acute than theangle shown in FIG. 33, such that the distal-most region of distal end(1332) is still located within body (1310) at the position shown in FIG.33. As another merely illustrative example, the entire distal end (1332)of body (1310) may be positioned further proximally within body (1310)relative to the position shown in FIG. 33. Other suitable configurationswill be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Similarly, other suitable distances between theproximal-most region of distal end (1332) and the proximal end ofabsorbent body (1310) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood thatthis proximal positioning of the proximal-most region of distal end(1332) may be applied to any of the other obliquely cut suction tubedistal end configurations described herein. Moreover, this proximalpositioning of the proximal-most region of distal end (1332) may beprovided in an absorbent body (1310) with proximal chamfers similar tochamfers (2018) described below with reference to FIG. 40. In addition,this proximal positioning of the proximal-most region of distal end(1332) may permit use of a suction tube (1330) having a relatively largediameter (e.g., larger than suction tube diameters that are explicitlyspecified herein). Other suitable configurations and combinations willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

FIG. 34 shows another exemplary absorbent body (1410) with a string(1420) and a suction tube (1430). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (1410, 1420, 1430) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (1430) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (1410). In the present example, thedistal end (1432) of suction tube (1430) is cut at an oblique angle(i.e., oblique to the longitudinal axis of suction tube (1430)). Thus,even with suction tube (1430) fully inserted into absorbent body (1410),a cylindraceous gap or recess (1412) is defined within body (1410),distal to distal end (1432). Moreover, recess (1412) of the presentexample defines an enlarged inner diameter. This enlarged inner diameteris substantially larger than the outer diameter of suction tube (1430),such that recess (1412) provides additional clearance for the materialforming absorbent body (1410) to compress inwardly without cloggingdistal end (1432). In other words, enlarged recess (1412) and theoblique configuration of distal end (1432) may together improve ormaintain patency between absorbent body (1410) and suction tube (1430),ensuring appropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (1410) throughsuction tube (1430) even when absorbent body (1410) encounters bothcompression and suction while deployed within the patient.

While absorbent body (1410) is described above as being used with asuction tube (1430) having an obliquely angled distal end (1432), itshould be understood that absorbent body (1410) may also be used with asuction tube having a flat distal end (e.g., like suction tube (1230),etc.) or some other kind of distal end configuration. It should also beunderstood that recess (1412) may be provided by assembling a stack ofseparate absorbent members to form absorbent body (1410). For instance,a first absorbent member may have a first cutout formed in it to definerecess (1412). A second absorbent member may have a second cutout formedin it to receive suction tube (1430) proximal to recess (1412). A thirdabsorbent member may lack any cutouts, and may be positioned distal tothe first absorbent member. These three members may be assembled andbonded together in any suitable fashion to form absorbent body (1410).Other suitable techniques that may be used to form absorbent body (1410)will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

FIG. 35 shows another exemplary absorbent body (1510) with a string(1520) and a suction tube (1530). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (1510, 1520, 1530) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (1530) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (1510). In the present example, thedistal end (1532) of suction tube (1530) is cut at an oblique angle(i.e., oblique to the longitudinal axis of suction tube (1530)). Thus,even with suction tube (1530) fully inserted into absorbent body (1510),a cylindraceous gap or recess (1512) is defined within body (1510),distal to distal end (1532). Moreover, recess (1512) of the presentexample defines an enlarged inner diameter. This enlarged inner diameteris substantially larger than the outer diameter of suction tube (1530),such that recess (1512) provides additional clearance for the materialforming absorbent body (1510) to compress inwardly without cloggingdistal end (1532). In other words, enlarged recess (1512) and theoblique configuration of distal end (1532) may together improve ormaintain patency between absorbent body (1510) and suction tube (1530),ensuring appropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (1510) throughsuction tube (1530) even when absorbent body (1510) encounters bothcompression and suction while deployed within the patient.

As also shown in FIG. 35, suction tube (1530) of the present exampleincludes a plurality of lateral openings (1534). Openings (1534) provideadditional pathways for suction tube (1530) to draw in fluids fromabsorbent body (1510). Openings (1534) are substantially circular inthis example, though it should be understood that any other suitableconfigurations may be used. In addition, while three openings (1534) areshown, any other suitable number of openings (1534) may be used alongthe length of suction tube (1530). Furthermore, any suitable number ofopenings (1534) may be used at a given longitudinal position alongsuction tube (1530), in any suitable angular arrangement.

FIG. 36 shows an exemplary alternative absorbent body (1610) that may beused with suction tube (1530). Absorbent body (1610) of this exampleincludes a plurality of additional recesses (1632). Each of theserecesses (1632) is positioned to correspond with a respective lateralopening (1534) of suction tube (1530). Thus, recesses (1632) may preventopenings (1534) from getting clogged with the material forming absorbentbody (1610). Absorbent body (1610) of this example also includes a firstdistal recess (1634) and a second distal recess (1636). First distalrecess (1634) has a larger diameter and is positioned to correspond witha proximal portion of obliquely angled distal end (1532) of suction tube(1530); while second distal recess (1636) has a smaller diameter ispositioned to correspond with a distal portion of obliquely angleddistal end (1532) of suction tube (1530). Of course, absorbent body(1610) may instead have a distal recess that is formed like recess(1532) described above or that has some other configuration. It shouldalso be understood that recesses (1632, 1634, 1636) may be provided bystacking a plurality of absorbent members together, as described abovewith respect to absorbent body (1410). Alternatively, absorbent body(1610) may be formed in any other suitable fashion.

FIG. 37 shows another exemplary absorbent body (1710) with a string(1720) and a suction tube (1730). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (1710, 1720, 1730) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (1530) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (1710). In the present example, thedistal end (1732) of suction tube (1730) is cut at an oblique angle(i.e., oblique to the longitudinal axis of suction tube (1730)). Thus,even with suction tube (1730) fully inserted into absorbent body (1710),a cylindraceous gap or recess (1712) is defined within body (1710),distal to distal end (1732). Moreover, recess (1712) of the presentexample defines an enlarged inner diameter. This enlarged inner diameteris substantially larger than the outer diameter of suction tube (1730),such that recess (1712) provides additional clearance for the materialforming absorbent body (1710) to compress inwardly without cloggingdistal end (1732). In other words, enlarged recess (1712) and theoblique configuration of distal end (1732) may together improve ormaintain patency between absorbent body (1710) and suction tube (1730),ensuring appropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (1710) throughsuction tube (1730) even when absorbent body (1710) encounters bothcompression and suction while deployed within the patient.

As also shown in FIG. 37, suction tube (1730) of the present exampleincludes a lateral opening (1734). Opening (1734) provides an additionalpathway for suction tube (1730) to draw in fluids from absorbent body(1710). Opening (1734) has a scoop-cut, scalloped configuration in thisexample, though it should be understood that any other suitableconfigurations may be used. In addition, while one opening (1734) isshown, any other suitable number of openings (1734) may be used alongthe length of suction tube (1730). Furthermore, any suitable number ofopenings (1734) may be used at a given longitudinal position alongsuction tube (1730), in any suitable angular arrangement.

FIG. 38 shows another exemplary absorbent body (1810) with a string(1820) and a suction tube (1830). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (1810, 1820, 1830) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (1830) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (1810). In the present example, thedistal end (1832) of suction tube (1830) is cut at an oblique angle(i.e., oblique to the longitudinal axis of suction tube (1830)). Thus,even with suction tube (1830) fully inserted into absorbent body (1810),a cylindraceous gap or recess (1812) is defined within body (1810),distal to distal end (1832). Moreover, recess (1812) of the presentexample defines an enlarged inner diameter. This enlarged inner diameteris substantially larger than the outer diameter of suction tube (1830),such that recess (1812) provides additional clearance for the materialforming absorbent body (1810) to compress inwardly without cloggingdistal end (1832). In other words, enlarged recess (1812) and theoblique configuration of distal end (1832) may together improve ormaintain patency between absorbent body (1810) and suction tube (1830),ensuring appropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (1810) throughsuction tube (1830) even when absorbent body (1810) encounters bothcompression and suction while deployed within the patient.

As also shown in FIG. 38, suction tube (1830) of the present exampleincludes a lateral opening (1834). Opening (1834) provides an additionalpathway for suction tube (1830) to draw in fluids from absorbent body(1810). Opening (1834) has an angle-cut, “V” shaped configuration inthis example, though it should be understood that any other suitableconfigurations may be used. In addition, while one opening (1834) isshown, any other suitable number of openings (1834) may be used alongthe length of suction tube (1830). Furthermore, any suitable number ofopenings (1834) may be used at a given longitudinal position alongsuction tube (1830), in any suitable angular arrangement.

FIG. 39 shows an exemplary alternative absorbent body (1910) that may beused with suction tube (1530, 1730, 1830). Absorbent body (1910) of thisexample includes a distal recess (1912) and an enlarged recess (1914),which is positioned to correspond with either the entire set of openings(1534) of suction tube (1530) or the lateral openings (1734, 1834) ofsuction tubes (1730, 1830). Thus, recess (1914) may prevent openings(1534, 1734, 1834) from getting clogged with the material formingabsorbent body (1910). It should also be understood that recesses (1912,1914) may be provided by stacking a plurality of absorbent memberstogether, as described above with respect to absorbent body (1410).Alternatively, absorbent body (1910) may be formed in any other suitablefashion.

FIG. 40 shows another exemplary absorbent body (2010) with a string(2020) and a suction tube (2030). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (2010, 2020, 2030) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (2030) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (2010). In the present example,absorbent body (2010) includes a pair of chamfers (2018) at the endassociated with suction tube (2030). Chamfers (2018) may facilitateremoval of absorbent body (2010) from the patient, by providing a taperand reducing drag against walls and other anatomical structures withinthe paranasal cavity. In addition, chamfers (2018) may reducecompression of absorbent body (2010) against the distal end of suctiontube (2030), which may in turn reduce the risk of absorbent body (2010)clogging the distal end of suction tube (2030). Chamfers (2018) may beformed at any suitable angles.

FIG. 41 shows another exemplary absorbent body (2110) with a string(2120) and a suction tube (2130). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (2110, 2120, 2130) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (2130) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (2110). In the present example,absorbent body (2110) includes a reduced diameter portion (2118) at theend associated with suction tube (2130). Like chamfers (2018), reduceddiameter portion (2118) may reduce compression of absorbent body (2110)against the distal end of suction tube (2130), which may in turn reducethe risk of absorbent body (2110) clogging the distal end of suctiontube (2130). Reduced diameter portion (2118) may be formed with anysuitable diameter. It should also be understood that a set of reduceddiameter portions (2118) may be stacked with progressively increasingdiameters. Other suitable configurations will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

FIG. 42 shows another exemplary absorbent body (2210) with a string(2220) and a suction tube (2230). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (2210, 2220, 2230) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (2230) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (2210). In the present example, suctiontube (2230) includes a plurality of lateral openings (2236) that arepositioned outside of absorbent body (2210). It should be understoodthat openings (2236) may provide additional pathways for suction tube(2230) to draw fluid away from within the paranasal cavity.

Openings (2236) are substantially circular in this example, though itshould be understood that any other suitable configurations may be used.In addition, while two openings (2236) are shown, any other suitablenumber of openings (2236) may be used along the length of suction tube(2230). Furthermore, any suitable number of openings (2236) may be usedat a given longitudinal position along suction tube (2230), in anysuitable angular arrangement. It should also be understood that suctiontube (2230) and absorbent body (2210) may include any of the additionalopenings, distal end configurations, and recesses described above tofurther promote patency between absorbent body (2210) and suction tube(2230).

FIG. 43 shows another exemplary absorbent body (2310) with a string(2320) and a suction tube (2330). Except for the differences describedbelow, these components (2310, 2320, 2330) are configured and operablesubstantially identically to absorbent body (910), string (916), andsuction tube (930) described above. It should therefore be understoodthat the proximal end of suction tube (2330) may be coupled withconnector (940) and/or some other component in order to provide fluidand/or suction to absorbent body (2310).

In the present example, the distal end (2332) of suction tube (2330)terminates at the proximal end of absorbent body (2310). A suctioninsert (2340) is inserted into distal end (2332) of suction tube (2330)and extends distally into absorbent body (2310). Suction insert (2340)is coaxially aligned with suction tube (2330) and provides a path forfluid communication between suction tube (2330) and absorbent body(2310). Suction insert (2340) includes a distal end (2342) that is cutat an oblique angle (i.e., oblique to the longitudinal axis of suctioninsert (2340)). Thus, even with suction insert (2340) fully insertedinto absorbent body (2310), a cylindraceous gap or recess (2312) isdefined within body (2310), distal to distal end (2342). Moreover,recess (2312) of the present example defines an enlarged inner diameter.This enlarged inner diameter is substantially larger than the outerdiameter of suction insert (2340), such that recess (2312) providesadditional clearance for the material forming absorbent body (2310) tocompress inwardly without clogging distal end (2342). In other words,enlarged recess (2312) and the oblique configuration of distal end(2342) may together improve or maintain patency between absorbent body(2310) and both suction insert (2340) and suction tube (2330), ensuringappropriate fluid flow from absorbent body (2310) through suction insert(2340) and suction tube (2330) even when absorbent body (2310)encounters both compression and suction while deployed within thepatient.

As also shown in FIG. 43, suction insert (2340) of the present exampleincludes a lateral opening (2344). Opening (2344) provides an additionalpathway for suction insert (2340) to draw in fluids from absorbent body(2310). Opening (2344) has an angle-cut, “V” shaped configuration inthis example, though it should be understood that any other suitableconfigurations may be used. In addition, while one opening (2344) isshown, any other suitable number of openings (2344) may be used alongthe length of suction insert (2340). Furthermore, any suitable number ofopenings (23444) may be used at a given longitudinal position alongsuction insert (2340), in any suitable angular arrangement.

In some versions, the inner diameter of suction insert (2340) is betweenapproximately 0.07 inches and approximately 0.100 inches. This innerdiameter of suction insert (2340) may be greater than the inner diameterof suction tube (2320). In some versions, suction insert (2340) has agreater rigidity than suction tube (2320). Also in some versions,suction tube (2320) has a greater wall thickness than suction insert(2340). In any of these versions, the overlap between suction insert(2340) and suction tube (2330) at the proximal end of body (2310) mayreduce the risk of suction tube (2330) kinking at the proximal end ofbody (2310).

IX. Miscellaneous

While suction devices (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000, 1100)have been described above as being used in the context of an irrigationprocedure, it should be understood that suction devices (100, 200, 300,400, 600, 700, 900, 1000, 1100) may be used in a variety of otherprocedures. Similarly, it should be understood that suction devices(100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000, 1100) may be used to absorband suction fluids other than irrigation fluid. By way of example only,suction devices (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000, 1100) may beused to absorb medication (e.g., lidocaine, etc.), blood, water, and/orany other fluid that may otherwise drain through the nasopharynx (NP).

Because of the variance in the size of a choana opening, a plurality ofsuction devices (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000, 1100) ofvarying sizes and/or configurations may be provided to allow a physicianto choose a suction device (100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000,1100). For instance, a kit may be provided with bodies (110, 210, 310,410, 610, 710, 910) of various configurations and/or sizes, such thatthe physician may select a body (110, 210, 310, 410, 610, 710, 910) of aparticular configuration/size based on observation of the patient'sparticular anatomy (e.g., after visualizing the patient's choana (C)using a CT scan or endoscope, etc.). Because of the expansion ratio ofbody (110, 210, 310, 410, 610, 710, 910), exact measurements the choana(C) opening would not necessarily be needed.

It should be understood that any of the examples described herein mayinclude various other features in addition to or in lieu of thosedescribed above. By way of example only, any of the examples describedherein may also include one or more of the various features disclosed inany of the various references that are incorporated by reference herein.

It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings,expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may becombined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions,embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. Theabove-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc.should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other.Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined willbe readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to beincluded within the scope of the claims.

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or otherdisclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to beincorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to theextent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existingdefinitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in thisdisclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure asexplicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting materialincorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, thatis said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts withexisting definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forthherein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arisesbetween that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Versions described above may be designed to be disposed of after asingle use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. Versionsmay, in either or both cases, be reconditioned for reuse after at leastone use. Reconditioning may include any combination of the steps ofdisassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement ofparticular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, someversions of the device may be disassembled, and any number of theparticular pieces or parts of the device may be selectively replaced orremoved in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement ofparticular parts, some versions of the device may be reassembled forsubsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a userimmediately prior to a procedure. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that reconditioning of a device may utilize a variety oftechniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use ofsuch techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all withinthe scope of the present application.

By way of example only, versions described herein may be sterilizedbefore and/or after a procedure. In one sterilization technique, thedevice is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic orTYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a field ofradiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation,x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on thedevice and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored inthe sterile container for later use. A device may also be sterilizedusing any other technique known in the art, including but not limited tobeta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention,further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may beaccomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill inthe art without departing from the scope of the present invention.Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and otherswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, theexamples, embodiments, geometrics, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps,and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered interms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to thedetails of structure and operation shown and described in thespecification and drawings.

I/we claim:
 1. An apparatus comprising: (a) a body, wherein the bodycomprises an absorbent material, wherein the body is configured to bedisposed within an anatomical passageway, wherein the body is configuredto expand to an expanded state, wherein the body is configured to absorbfluid to thereby expand the body to the expanded state, wherein an outerperimeter of the body is configured to contact an inner wall of theanatomical passageway in the expanded state; and (b) a conduit in fluidcommunication with the body, wherein the conduit includes a distal endand a proximal end, wherein the distal end of the conduit is disposedwithin the body, wherein the conduit is operable to draw fluid away fromthe absorbent material via the distal end of the conduit; wherein theconduit has a distal end, wherein the body defines a gap at the distalend of the conduit.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising aconnector coupled with the proximal end of the conduit.
 3. The apparatusof claim 2, further comprising a tether, wherein the tether is coupledwith the body, wherein the tether is further coupled with the connector.4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the tether comprises a string. 5.The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the connector comprises a distal endand a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the conduit is disposedwithin the distal end of the connector.
 6. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the connector comprises a distal end and a proximal end, whereinthe proximal end of the connector comprises a luer fitting.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein the connector defines a lumen in fluidcommunication with the conduit.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein thelumen has a length and at least two different inner diameters atdifferent regions along the length of the lumen.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein at least a portion of the lumen is tapered along atleast a portion of the length of the lumen.
 10. The apparatus of claim2, further comprising a syringe coupled with the connector.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein the connector and the conduit areconfigured to provide a fluid path between the syringe and the body. 12.The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a suction source coupledwith the connector.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the connectorand the conduit are configured to provide a fluid path between thesuction source and the body.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thebody is sized to fit within a choana of a paranasal cavity.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a foam material.
 16. Anapparatus comprising: (a) a body, wherein the body comprises: (i) aplurality of frame members, wherein the frame members are configured totransition between a compressed configuration and an expandedconfiguration, and (ii) webbing extending between the frame members,wherein the webbing and the frame members together define an interiorregion, wherein the body is configured to be disposed within ananatomical passageway, wherein the body is configured to bear against aninner wall of the anatomical passageway when the frame members are inthe expanded configuration; (b) a conduit in fluid communication withthe body, wherein the conduit is operable to draw fluid away from theinterior region; and (c) a suction source in fluid communication withthe conduit.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the frame membersextend obliquely relative to the conduit.
 18. A method of providingsuction within an anatomical passageway of a patient, the methodcomprising: (a) positioning a non-expanded absorbent body within theanatomical passageway, wherein a fluid conduit is at least partiallydisposed within the absorbent body and is thereby in fluid communicationwith the absorbent body, wherein the fluid conduit extends externallyfrom the patient upon positioning of the non-expanded absorbent bodywithin the anatomical passageway, wherein the conduit includes at leastone side opening; (b) expanding the absorbent body within the anatomicalpassageway; (c) introducing fluid into the patient in or near theanatomical passageway; and (d) applying suction to the conduit, therebydrawing excess amounts of the introduced fluid from the anatomicalpassageway via the expanded absorbent body.
 19. The method of claim 18,wherein the act of expanding the absorbent body comprises communicatingfluid to the absorbent body via the conduit, thereby expanding theabsorbent body with the communicated fluid.
 20. The method of claim 19,wherein the conduit includes a connector, wherein the act ofcommunicating fluid to the absorbent body via the conduit comprisescoupling the connector with a fluid source and driving fluid from thefluid source into the conduit via the connector, the method furthercomprising removing the fluid source from the connector and coupling asuction source with the connector, wherein the act of applying suctionto the conduit comprises activating the suction source to providesuction to the conduit via the connector.